Stormy day for central NZ

Thunderstorms are forecast for the lower North Island today
(Thur) with strong winds and large hail possible.

MetService says thunderstorms moving up the country are
expected to reach Kaikoura by midday and the southern North
Island this afternoon, with Wairarapa, Wellington and
Marlborough expected to feel the worst of the storms.

There is a possibility of some of these thunderstorms being
severe, with hail greater than 20mm in diameter and wind
gusts of 110kmh or more, MetService said.

"Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards,
vines, glasshouses and vehicles, as well as make driving
conditions hazardous. Wind gusts of this strength can cause
some structural damage, including trees and power lines, and
may also make driving hazardous."

The risk of thunderstorms will decrease this evening, with
severe storms unlikely after 4pm in the south and 8pm in the
north.

A severe weather watch has been lifted for North Otago and
South Canterbury; however, MetService said scattered heavy
showers with thunderstorms are possible in these areas this
afternoon and evening.